MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Street protests in California against president-elect Trump and announced policies

Hundreds of activists marched through the streets of downtown Los Angeles with signs, “Stop Trump,” “I’m not a Criminal, I pay Taxes,” and “Fearless, United.”

A coalition of activist groups took on Sunday the streets of downtown Los Angeles to protest against some of the labor and immigration policies proposed by President-elect Donald Trump, a day before he is expected to officially claim victory in the nation’s presidential contest.

 On Monday, 538 presidential electors from across United States will convene in their respective states to cast their votes and finalize the results of the November 8 election. Trump, who only needs 270 electoral votes, is expected to collect 306 votes as pledged by members of the Electoral College.

Hundreds of activists from groups and unions that fight for the rights of Muslims, Jews, immigrants in the country illegally and the LGBT community marched through the streets of downtown Sunday, which is recognized by the United Nations as International Migrants Day. Many carried signs that said, “Stop Trump,” “I’m not a Criminal, I pay Taxes,” and “Fearless, United.”

“Today is about protecting our communities, especially our immigrant community,” said David Huerta, the president of SEIU United Service Workers West, a union that represents janitors, security officers and other service workers.

Joe Salas, a board member of the Islamic Center of Claremont, said he wanted people outside of California to know the state’s activists were ready to mobilize.

“We will stand up against discrimination,” he said. “We will go anywhere and help anyone being discriminated against.”

California state Senate leader Kevin de León, who has been a vocal critic of Trump, vowed to protect the rights of immigrants and said California, would be a “beacon of hope for the rest of America.”

A group calling itself the Hamilton Electors will hold a candlelight vigil at City Hall at 6 p.m. to encourage members of the Electoral College to vote their conscience when they cast their votes for president on Monday.